Ghanaian street-wear brand Free The Youth (FTY) is redefining the sneaker game with its latest collaboration with Nike.
The two fashion brands have joined forces to release the FTY AJ1 “Friends and Family”edition, an exclusive pair of Air Jordan 1 Mid shoes that pays homage to Ghanaian heritage.
The partnership between Nike Air Jordan and FTY was sparked by the FTY’s feature in the “Nike Air Jordan Unbannable” campaign ad, which showcased the ideals and origins of the FTY brand through aural and visual stories.
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The shoe’s design reflects the Ghanaian colours with its vibrant colour scheme, mainly featuring red, yellow, and black star accents paired with a lively orange heel, complemented by chrome metallic silver details that “represent the industrial nature of Tema”, the city where FTY originated.
The FTY logo is prominently displayed on the quarter above the blue toe box, accompanied by green laces and a blue-and-orange FTY tag above the Nike Swoosh.
One of the shoe’s most striking features is the Ɔkɔdiɛ mmowere (Eagle Talons) symbol, which replaces the traditional Air Jordan Wings logo. The Ɔkɔdiɛ mmowere designed with a Velcro technique, allows the wearer to switch the eagle’s positions, adding an element of versatility to the shoe’s design.
The Ɔkɔdiɛ mmowere symbolises bravery, unity, and spiritual strength, adding a deeper layer of meaning to the shoe’s design. Colourful graphics of eagle wings are embossed on the insoles, along with individual numbering printed on the inner tongue.
Notable musicians like Sarkodie and Rema are among the select few to have received a pair, with both artists sporting the shoes during their stage performances.
The FTY AJ1 “Friends and Family” edition is set to release in 2026, with only 175 pairs produced. This exclusive shoe is not for sale to the public.
Founded by Jonathan Coffie, Kelly Foli, Winfred Mensah, and Richard Kweku Ormano in 2013, Free The Youth emerged as a street-wear fashion brand in Ghana. From a passion that started among friends, the brand has now grown into an international Ghanaian fashion powerhouse. Their designs and fashion pieces, blended with Ghanaian elements and American street-wear influence, continue to bridge the global fashion scene.